Self-actualizing is the result of a person fulfilling his own individual potential. It was coined by Kurt Goldstein and utilized in the familiar Hierarchy of Needs by Abraham Maslow. According to Maslow, in order for an individual to self-actualize, a person's physiological, safety, love, and esteem needs must be met first.
In his studies Maslow found that self-actualizers had the following common traits [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-actualization#Maslow.27s_hierarchy_of_needs]:
Efficient perceptions of reality—that is, the ability to judge a situation fairly and honestly. Self-actualizers can readily identify dishonesty.
Comfortable acceptance of self, others, nature—shortcomings in self and others are accepted.
Spontaneity—bringing creativity and energy into daily life.
Task centering—having a problem to solve or a mission to fulfill.
Autonomy—ability to work and solve problems independently.
Continued freshness of appreciation—constant...
